Review: River of Spirits

River of Spirits

Series: The Underwild

Author: Shana Targosz

Aladdin, 2025

ISBN: 9781665957632 (hardcover)
9781665957656 (EPUB)
9781668130032 (unabridged audio download)

$24.99 CAD (hardcover)
$13.99 CAD (EPUB)
$34.99 CAD (unabridged audio download)

432 pages

Ages: 8 to 12 years

River of Spirits is Shana Targosz’s stunning debut novel and the first book in The Underwild series, perfect for fans of Percy Jackson. The story follows Senka, a girl raised between the realms of the living and the dead who dreams of becoming a Ferryer like her mentor and father figure, Charon. But when she breaks sacred Ferryer rules to help a grieving girl named Poppy, the two are swept up into a perilous journey through the Underworld where Senka uncovers long-buried secrets about her past. As Senka navigates the Underworld, she begins to question who she is outside of Charon’s guidance, finding her own agency. Balancing eerie encounters (gods, spirits, and monsters) with hilarious dialogue, River of Spirits explores themes of grief, identity, and the afterlife. The novel’s stream-of-consciousness prose creates an intimate connection between Senka and the reader. With a diverse cast and a richly imagined setting, this thrilling and witty adventure is a must-have for any library or school!